Cell Cycle Analysis Research Articles

7-O-tyrosyl Silybin Derivatives as a Novel Set of Anti-Prostate Cancer Compounds.

Silybin is a natural compound extensively studied for its hepatoprotective, neuroprotective and anticancer properties. Envisioning the enhancement of silybin potential by suitable modifications in its chemical structure, here, a series of new 7-O-alkyl silybins derivatives were synthesized by the Mitsunobu reaction starting from the silybins and tyrosol-based phenols, such as tyrosol (TYR, 3), 3-methoxytyrosol (MTYR, 4), and 3-hydroxytyrosol (HTYR, 5). This research sought to explore the antioxidant and anticancer properties of eighteen new derivatives and their mechanisms. In particular, the antioxidant properties of new derivatives outlined by the DPPH assay showed a very pronounced activity depending on the tyrosyl moiety (HTYR > MTYR >> TYR). A significant contribution of the HTYR moiety was observed for silybins and 2,3-dehydro-silybin-based derivatives. According to the very potent antioxidant activity, 2,3-dehydro-silybin derivatives 15ab, 15a, and 15b exerted the most potent anticancer activity in human prostate cancer PC-3 cells. Furthermore, flow cytometric analysis for cell cycle and apoptosis revealed that 15ab, 15a, and 15b induce strong G1 phase arrest and increase late apoptotic population in PC-3 cells. Additionally, Western blotting for apoptotic marker cleaved caspase-3 confirmed apoptosis induction by these silybin derivatives in PC-3 cells. These findings hold significant importance in the investigation of anticancer properties of silybin derivatives and strongly encourage swift investigation in pre-clinical models and clinical trials.

Exploring the Therapeutic Effects of Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz against Human Gastric Cancer.

Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz (AMK) is a traditional herbal medicine used for thousands of years in East Asia to improve a variety of illnesses and conditions, including cancers. This study explored the effect of AMK extract on apoptosis and tumor-grafted mice using AGS human gastric adenocarcinoma cells. We investigated the compounds, target genes, and associated diseases of AMK using the Traditional Chinese Medical Systems Pharmacy (TCMSP) database platform. Cell viability assay, cell cycle and mitochondrial depolarization analysis, caspase activity assay, reactive oxygen species (ROS) assay, and wound healing and spheroid formation assay were used to investigate the anti-cancer effects of AMK extract on AGS cells. Also, in vivo studies were conducted using subcutaneous xenografts. AMK extract reduced the viability of AGS cells and increased the sub-G1 cell fraction and the mitochondrial membrane potential. Also, AMK extract increased the production of ROS. AMK extract induced the increased caspase activities and modulated the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK). In addition, AMK extract effectively inhibited AGS cell migration and led to a notable reduction in the growth of AGS spheroids. Moreover, AMK extract hindered the growth of AGS xenograft tumors in NSG mice. Our results suggest that AMK has anti-cancer effects by promoting cell cycle arrest and inhibiting the proliferation of AGS cancer cells and a xenograft model through apoptosis. This study could provide a novel approach to treat gastric cancer.

Novel hybrid compounds of sclareol and doxorubicin as potential anticancer nanotherapy for glioblastoma

Two novel hybrid compounds, CON1 and CON2, have been developed by combining sclareol (SC) and doxorubicin (DOX) into a single molecular entity. These hybrid compounds have a 1:1 molar ratio of covalently linked SC and DOX. They have demonstrated promising anticancer properties, especially in glioblastoma cells, and have also shown potential in treating multidrug-resistant (MDR) cancer cells that express the P-glycoprotein (P-gp) membrane transporter. CON1 and CON2 form nanoparticles, as confirmed by Zetasizer, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and chemical modeling. TEM also showed that CON1 and CON2 can be found in glioblastoma cells, specifically in the cytoplasm, different organelles, nucleus, and nucleolus. To examine the anticancer properties, the U87 glioblastoma cell line, and its corresponding multidrug-resistant U87-TxR cell line, as well as patient-derived astrocytoma grade 3 cells (ASC), were used, while normal human lung fibroblasts were used to determine the selectivity. CON1 and CON2 exhibited better resistance and selectivity profiles than DOX, showing less cytotoxicity, as evidenced by real-time cell analysis, DNA damage determination, cell death induction, mitochondrial respiration, and mitochondrial membrane depolarization studies. Cell cycle analysis and the β-galactosidase activity assay suggested that glioblastoma cells die by senescence following CON1 treatment. Overall, CON1 and CON2 showed great potential as they have better anticancer features than DOX. They are promising candidates for additional preclinical and clinical studies on glioblastoma.

Enhancing RECK Expression Through miR-21 Inhibition: A Promising Strategy for Bladder Carcinoma Control.

Bladder carcinoma (BC) is the tenth most frequent malignancy worldwide, with high morbidity and mortality rates. Despite recent treatment advances, high-grade BC and muscle-invasive BC present with significant progression and recurrence rates, urging the need for alternative treatments. The microRNA-21 (miR-21) has superexpression in many malignancies and is associated with cellular invasion and progression. One of its mechanisms of action is the regulation of RECK, a tumor suppressor gene responsible for inhibiting metalloproteinases, including MMP9. In a high-grade urothelial cancer cell line, we aimed to assess if miR-21 downregulation would promote RECK expression and decrease MMP9 expression. We also evaluated cellular migration and proliferation potential by inhibition of this pathway. In a T24 cell line, we inhibited miR-21 expression by transfection of a specific microRNA inhibitor (anti-miR-21). There were also control and scramble groups, the last with a negative microRNA transfected. After the procedure, we performed a genetic expression analysis of miR-21, RECK, and MMP9 through qPCR. Migration, proliferation, and protein expression were evaluated via wound healing assay, colony formation assay, flow cytometry, and immunofluorescence.After anti-miR-21 transfection, miR-21 expression decreased with RECK upregulation and MMP9 downregulation. The immunofluorescence assay showed a significant increase in RECK protein expression (p < 0.0001) and a decrease in MMP9 protein expression (p = 0.0101). The anti-miR-21 transfection significantly reduced cellular migration in the wound healing assay (p < 0.0001). Furthermore, in the colony formation assay, the anti-miR-21 group demonstrated reduced cellular proliferation (p = 0.0008), also revealed in the cell cycle analysis by flow cytometry (p = 0.0038). Our results corroborate the hypothesis that miR-21 is associated with BC cellular migration and proliferation, revealing its potential as a new effective treatment for this pathology.

Abstract 4677: Characterizing resistant and metastatic phenotypes to pharmacological ascorbate in pancreatic cancer

Abstract Background and purpose: Pharmacological ascorbate (P-AscH) is a prooxidant that oxidizes to produce high levels of hydrogen peroxide. It is currently being investigated as an anti-cancer neoadjuvant for pancreatic cancer (PC). In phase I clinical trials, P-AscH has generated encouraging results in terms of efficiency and safety. However, 50% of patients do not respond to P-AscH suggesting that resistance occurs in a subset of patients. We have generated PC cell lines resistant to P-AscH to characterize mechanisms of resistance. Methodology: PANC-1 and MIA PaCa-2 PC cell lines were treated with a stepwise progression of increasing concentrations of P-AscH until 10-fold IC50 concentration was fully tolerated (AscR, ascorbate resistant) as determined by clonogenic survival. Once resistance was achieved, various redox enzyme protein expression and activity were measured to determine their role in resistance to P-AscH. Proliferation and cell cycle analysis were conducted on resistant and sensitive cells. An RNA sequencing screen was conducted as an unbiased approach to identify potential candidates crucial for resistance. Finally, phenotypes associated to increased metastatic potential, including collagen invasion and in vivo tumor colonization were explored for characterization. Results: PANC-1 and MIA PaCa-2 AscR cells developed unique mechanisms to tolerate high levels of P-AscH. PANC-1 AscR cells almost exclusively rely on catalase to detoxify H2O2 generated during P-AscH treatments, while MIA PaCa-2 AscR cells do not. It is interesting to note that not every redox enzyme was upregulated in response to P-AscH treatments, including GPx1/4. The AscR cell lines also differed in growth rates. PANC-1 AscR cells developed a faster proliferation rate, whereas MIA PaCa-2 AscR cells significantly decreased their growth. This is consistent with a shortened G1/G0 cell cycle phase and an accumulation in G2/M, respectively. The RNA sequencing screen revealed a metastatic signature in association with resistance to P-AscH, including upregulation of the PI3K/AKT axis. We observed a significant increase in collagen matrix invasion, as well as metastatic colonization in vivo. Additionally, we have observed increased expression of active AKT in both AscR cell lines, indicating a potential mechanism for the increased metastatic phenotype. Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate distinct mechanisms for AcsR cells to tolerate high doses of P-AscH. Although catalase has demonstrated to be a key factor in controlling redox flux, it may not be necessary for all cell types. Not only can P-AscH resistance alter redox enzyme expression, but we have also observed substantial increase in metastatic potential to drive invasion and tumor colonization. In summary, our data indicate a potential route for PC to tolerate high levels of P-AscH and may explain how some patients do not respond to this treatment regimen. Citation Format: Amanda N. Pope, Brianne R. O'Leary, Juan Du, Garry R. Buettner, Michael D. Henry, Joseph J. Cullen. Characterizing resistant and metastatic phenotypes to pharmacological ascorbate in pancreatic cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 4677.

Abstract 516: The role of clathrin-mediated endocytosis of EGFR in glioblastoma cell viability and cell cycle progression

Abstract Glioblastoma (GBM) is characterized by poor prognosis and overexpression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). EGFR signaling is regulated through endocytosis, including clathrin-mediated endocytosis. We hypothesized that clathrin-mediated EGFR endocytosis promotes GBM cell viability and proliferation. Analysis of patient data from the Gliovis database revealed decreased overall survival in GBM patients with above-median clathrin expression (n=262) compared to below-median expression (n=263, p&amp;lt;0.05). Immunocytochemistry and Western blot analysis confirmed increased clathrin levels in GBM patient samples compared to normal brain tissue (n=15, p&amp;lt;0.01). To determine the functional effect of inhibiting clathrin-mediated endocytosis, U87 and U251 GBM cells were treated with 15 μM Pitstop-2, a clathrin inhibitor, for 24 hours. Pitstop-2 significantly reduced clathrin levels and cell viability by 40% compared to control (p&amp;lt;0.001, n=3). Cell cycle analysis by flow cytometry revealed Pitstop-2 treatment led to G2/M arrest in both cell lines versus control (p&amp;lt;0.01, n=3). Together, these findings indicate clathrin-mediated endocytosis of EGFR may promote GBM cell viability and proliferation. Further studies on the effects of clathrin inhibition on EGFR signaling and tumor growth in vivo will elucidate the therapeutic potential of targeting this pathway. Citation Format: Aaron Deter, Andrew J. Tsung, Maheedhara R. Guda, Swapna Asuthkar, Kiran Velpula. The role of clathrin-mediated endocytosis of EGFR in glioblastoma cell viability and cell cycle progression [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 516.

Abstract 6988: TP53RK regulates DNA replication by CDC7-mediated MCM helicase phosphorylation in colorectal cancer

Abstract Background: We identify TP53 regulating kinase (TP53RK), which showed the highest cell growth inhibition efficiency in six colon cancer cell lines. TP53RK is overexpressed in various cancer types, including multiple myeloma and skin cancer, but the mechanism for its tumorigenesis in colon cancer is unknown. Therefore, this study aims to reveal the tumorigenesis mechanism of TP53RK, which is overexpressed in Colorectal Cancer (CRC), through global and phospho-proteomics. Method: A total 5 CRC cell lines (HT29, SW480, HCT116, H508 and CaCO2), colon normal fibroblast CRL1459, HCT116 p53 null cell and patient-derived normal organoid were used. Immunoblotting, MTT assay, Colony formation assay, Annexin-V assay and cell cycle analysis were performed for evaluation of TP53RK loss-of-function. With kinase-substrate enrichment analysis with phospho-proteome analysis, MCM2 was found to be a substrate for the kinase regulated by TP53RK. Results: High-throughput genetic screening approach have been widely applied to the study the gene function and molecular mechanism associated with tumorigenesis. By using genome-wide CRISPR/Cas9 library screening, we identify TP53RK, the first committed negative-selected gene, as a tyrosine kinase in the colorectal cancer(CRC) specific biomarker. Through proteome analysis, we found that depletion of TP53RK can hypo-phosphorylate the DNA helicase complex, MCM2 (minichromosome maintenance protein2). According to previous studies, the phosphorylation of MCM2 is regulated by CDC7 (cell division cycle7), and the abnormal states of CDC7 and MCM2 cause DNA replication disorder. Our results show that TP53RK expression is upregulated in CRC and its depletion results in decreased CDC7 expression and hypo-phosphorylation of the MCM complex. Decreased CDC7 expression due to its instability after TP53RK depletion can lead to DNA replication errors. DNA replication errors can lead cancer cells to apoptosis, suggesting that they may be a strategy for cancer treatment. In summary, we provide TP53RK as a novel prognostic and therapeutic target in CRC. Conclusion: To recapitulate briefly, our findings suggest that the interaction of TP53RK with CDC7 can regulate CDC7 protein stability and stabilized CDC7 can phosphorylate MCM2 to initiate DNA replication. In other words, because overexpression of TP53RK acts as an oncogene that promotes tumor progression in CRC, depletion of TP53RK can degrade CDC7 and induce colon cancer cells to death or regression. Citation Format: Younghee Choi, Ji-won Park, Jun-kyu Kang, Eun-ju Kim, Sang-Hyun Song, Eugene C. Yi, Tae-You Kim. TP53RK regulates DNA replication by CDC7-mediated MCM helicase phosphorylation in colorectal cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 6988.

Abstract 1828: Development and evaluation of novel gemcitabine analog for the treatment of pancreatic cancer

Abstract Purpose: Gemcitabine acts against pancreatic cancer and a wide range of solid tumors and it is known to be rapidly deaminated or metabolized in the blood to an inactive metabolite. To increase its therapeutic levels, gemcitabine is administered at high doses causing severe side effects. To improve its metabolic stability, increase cytotoxic activity, and limit the phenomena of resistance many alternatives have emerged, such as modifying gemcitabine. The purpose of this study was to develop and characterize a novel gemcitabine analog with improved stability and enhanced anticancer activity against pancreatic cancer. Methods: A novel analog of gemcitabine (GemAGY) was designed and synthesized through chemical modification of gemcitabine hydrochloride (GemHCl) at position 4 with hydroxylamine. Gem AGY was characterized using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), micro-elemental analysis, and purity determined using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Pancreatic cancer cell lines (MiaPaCa-2, BxPC3, and PANC-1) were treated with GemHCl and GemAGY. Cytotoxicity, cell migration, clonogenic assay, cell cycle, and apoptosis studies were performed to evaluate the effect of GemAGY against pancreatic cancer cell lines. Results: The percent purity of GemAGY was over 99.6%. GemAGY demonstrated a higher cytotoxic effect against pancreatic cancer cells with a lower half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value (2.5-fold high) compared with GemHCl. For MiaPaCa-2 cells, the IC50 value of GemAGY was found to be 1.63 ± 0.15 µm compared to GemHCl (4.0 ± 1.7 µm). GemAGY also exhibited higher cytotoxicity in PANC-1 (IC50: 1.7 ± 0.2µm) compared to GemHCl (IC50: 5.6 ±1.3 µm) and the IC50 value of GemAGY (3.2±1.1µm) in BxPC-3 cells was significantly better than GemHCl (5.5±1.0 µm). The cell cycle analysis indicated that GemAGY-treated MiaPaCa-2 cells at 1.50 µm concentration had a higher G0/G1 population (60.24%) compared to GemHCl-treated cells (55%). The cell migration studies showed that GemAGY-treated MiaPaCa-2 cells at 12.5 µm concentration significantly inhibited cell mobility towards the wound area with migrated cells found to be 65 ± 6 compared to Gem HCl (174.3 ± 4.0) (GemAGY vs GemHCl; p&amp;lt;0.0001). Similarly, GemAGY-treated PANC-1 cells at 12.5 µm concentration significantly inhibited cell mobility towards the wound area with (98 ± 5.1) compared to Gem HCl (254 ± 6.6). The quantitative analysis of apoptosis studies showed that GemAGY significantly induced higher apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner in MiaPaCa-2 cells compared to GemHCl as concentration increases (GemAGY vs GemHCl; p &amp;lt;0.0001). Conclusion: This study demonstrates that GemAGY increases the anticancer activity of gemcitabine and may have the potential to improve the chemotherapeutic efficacy of gemcitabine in the treatment of pancreatic cancer. Citation Format: Joy Okoro, Raviteja Bulusu, Esther K. Frimpong, Sherise Rodgers, Bo Han, Xue Zhu, Edward Agyare. Development and evaluation of novel gemcitabine analog for the treatment of pancreatic cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 1828.

Abstract 522: TP53mutations promote death of breast cancer cells following Kif11 inhibition

Abstract Background: Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) comprises 15-20% of breast cancer diagnoses. These aggressive breast cancers are characterized by their lack of expression of the estrogen receptor (ER), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), and progesterone receptor (PR), resulting in few targeted therapy options for TNBC patients. While 85-90% of TNBCs contain mutations in TP53, mutant p53 is challenging to target directly. Instead, we aim to identify other survival pathways critical for the growth and survival of TP53 mutant cells. Through a combined in vitro and in silico drug screen, we identified the Kif11 inhibitor SB-743921 as more effective in TP53 mutant compared to wild-type breast cancer cells. Hypothesis: We hypothesized that Kif11 inhibition causes TP53 mutant cells to undergo cell death due to failure of activation of p53-mediated cell cycle checkpoints. Methods: Clinical data from the TCGA and METABRIC cohorts was obtained from cBioPortal. Expression and survival analyses were performed using GraphPad Prism. Cell growth assays were conducted by seeding cells, treating under designated conditions, then staining with Hoechst 33342 for cell counting on the ImageXpress Pico. Cell death was determined by staining with Annexin V and PI or DAPI Staining followed by flow cytometry analysis. Cell cycle analysis was conducted following synchronization with Lovastatin and Mevalonate release followed by imaging analysis of cell lines expressing the Fast FUCCI reporter or PI staining and flow cytometry analysis. Immunofluorescence imaging was conducted by staining with anti-alpha-tubulin-AlexaFluor488 and DAPI and imaging on the Nikon TI2 or ImageXPress PICO. In vitro expression experiments were carried out through qPCR and western blotting. Results: KIF11 is most highly expressed in TP53 mutant and triple-negative tumors and high expression of KIF11 is associated with poorer overall survival. In breast cancer cell lines, Kif11 inhibition leads to a cell cycle block in both TP53 mutant and wild-type cells, but TP53 mutant cells then die following this cell cycle block. Furthermore, Kif11 inhibition causes mitotic dysfunction, including monopolar spindle formation and multinucleated cells in TP53 mutants. Introduction of a TP53 mutation into TP53 wild-type cells also induces cell death following Kif11 inhibition. Conclusions: KIF11 is highly expressed in aggressive breast cancers and is associated with poorer prognosis. Using the small molecule inhibitor SB-74321 that has been tested in phase I/II clinical trials with favorable tolerability, we found that Kif11 inhibition results in mitotic dysfunction and death of TP53 mutant breast cancer cells due to mitotic catastrophe. These results suggest that Kif11 is a promising target for the treatment of TP53 mutant TNBCs. Citation Format: Amanda L. Lanier, William Tahaney, Jing Qian, Cassandra Moyer, Yanxia Ma, Banu Arun, Abhijit Mazumdar, Powel H. Brown. TP53mutations promote death of breast cancer cells following Kif11 inhibition [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 522.

Abstract 2040: Targeting MUS81 endonuclease to enhance chemo-immunotherapy response in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

Abstract Background: In advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), immune checkpoint inhibitors are only effective in 15-20% of cases. Defects in replication stress response represent a promising avenue for enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of immunotherapy through DNA damage and the release of immunostimulatory DNA. MUS81, a DNA structure-specific endonuclease involved in resolving replication stress, is upregulated in many cancer types including HNSCC, and MUS81-associated cytosolic DNA is implicated in triggering cGAS-STING mediated innate immunity. The objectives of this study were to assess the impact of targeting MUS81 on HNSCC cell sensitivity to cisplatin, and investigate its role in enhancing immunotherapy response in HNSCC, through the cell viability and cell cycle analysis, differential gene expression, and DNA release within small extracellular vesicles (exosomes). Methods and Results: We used HNSCC cell lines and patient-derived organoids (PDOs) to investigate the consequences of CRISPR/Cas9-mediated MUS81 knockout (KO). We demonstrated that MUS81 KO increased HNSCC cell sensitivity to cisplatin, inducing a G2/M cell cycle arrest. Transcriptomic analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEG) in MUS81 KO vs control cells highlighted upregulation of ANXA6 (tumor suppressor gene encoding for Annexin A6), MACROH2A2 (involved in the quiescent phenotype acquisition of malignant HNSCC cells) and CDA (encoding for cytidine deaminase, implicated in replication stress). MUS81 KO was also associated with downregulation of LCP1 (encoding for lymphocyte cytosolic protein 1, upregulated in oral cancer and controlling cellular proliferation, invasiveness, and migratory activities). Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) of RNA-seq data, revealed positive enrichment in MUS81 KO cells treated with cisplatin in genes involved in the hallmark interferon alpha (Normalized Enrichment Score (NES) 3.03, p-value &amp;lt; 0.001) and interferon gamma (NES 2.83, p- value &amp;lt; 0.001) pathways, indicative of innate and adaptive immune responses. Additionally, the pathway of hallmark inflammatory response was positively enriched (NES 2.22, p &amp;lt; 0.001). In addition, cisplatin treatment in MUS81 KO was associated with notable alterations in the concentration and length of exosomal DNA, with implications for immune response modulation within the tumor microenvironment. Conclusions: Our study underscores the potential significance of MUS81 as a novel therapeutic target in HNSCC. In addition to sensitizing HNSCC cells to chemotherapeutic agents, targeting MUS81 may influence the dynamics of the tumor microenvironment, thereby enhancing the prospects of immunotherapy in this context. Further in-depth investigations are imperative to validate these observations and facilitate the development of innovative therapeutic strategies tailored to targeting MUS81 in HNSCC. Citation Format: Ali Abdulnabi Suwaidan, Anna Pasto, Caitlin McCarthy, Teng Pan, Jinhai Deng, Luigi Dolcetti, Giovanna Alfano, Rami Mustapha, James Monypenny, Martin Forster, Tony Ng. Targeting MUS81 endonuclease to enhance chemo-immunotherapy response in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 2040.

Abstract 5967: Blockade of Wnt5A/ROR1 signaling as cancer stem cell targeting therapy for metastatic prostate cancer

Abstract BACKGROUND– Wnt5A and its non-canonical Wnt receptor, ROR1, have emerged as a promising new signaling pathway target for lethal, metastatic prostate cancer. Wnt5A has emerged as a significant marker of poor prognosis in circulating tumor cells (CTCs) of metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) patients. ROR1 is expressed in lethal types of mCRPC, especially neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC). A therapeutic ROR1 antibody, Zilovertamab, has been clinically tested in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and metastatic breast cancer and shown to be safe. We sought to investigate Zilovertamab-based therapies for metastatic prostate cancer in pre-clinical model systems. HYPOTHESIS – Wnt5A/ROR1 signaling may mediate a cancer stem cell program which makes cells resistant to therapies which target the cell cycle and proliferation. Blocking ROR1 may reveal vulnerabilities which sensitize cancer cells to chemotherapies like docetaxel. METHODS– ROR1 expression was determined using RNASeq, qRT-PCR, FACS, IHC and Western blotting. ROR1 signaling was blocked using the anti-ROR1 therapeutic antibody, Zilovertamab, or CRISPRCas9 ROR1 knock out. Cell growth was measured using an Incucyte real time imaging system. Stem cell activity was assessed in 3D organoids. Cell cycle analysis was performed in live cells in 2D cultures and 3D organoids using the Fucci2BL bicistronic Fluorescent, Ubiquitination-based Cell Cycle Indicator reporter system. PDX PCSD13 tumor growth was measured via calipers and IVIS. RNASeq was performed on tumors. RESULTS– We showed that ROR1 was expressed at high levels in mCRPC cell lines: PC3, DU145, and in the bone metastatic prostate cancer PDX: PCSD13. CRISPR/Cas9 Knock out of ROR1 in PC3 and DU145 cells showed increased sensitivity to docetaxel inhibition of proliferation in vitro in 2D real time Incucyte proliferation assays and in 3D organoids. Organoid formation was significantly reduced in ROR1 KO cells. Cells expressing the FUCCI live cell cycle tracker showed docetaxel led to G2 arrest and ROR1 signaling inhibition increased efficacy of docetaxel induced cell cycle arrest. Treatment of PCSD13 PDX in vivo with Zilovertamab plus docetaxel synergistically increased tumor growth inhibition in vivo and modulated cancer stem cell and cell cycle expression profiles. CONCLUSIONS– Cancer stem cells represent the fundamental precursors from which all diverse tumor subpopulations evolve. Thus, therapeutic targeting of these tumor initiating stem/progenitor cells may prevent the evolutionary diversification of a tumor and overcome a critical clinical barrier to cancer treatment. We showed synergistic response in our PDX and PCs cell line models to Zilovertamab plus docetaxel. We are now conducting a phase 1b clinical trial with zilovertamab plus docetaxel in patients with metastatic CRPC (CirmD, NCT05156905, PI R Mckay). Citation Format: Christina A.M. Jamieson, Jamillah Murtadha, Christopher S. Oh, Michelle T. Muldong, Niloofar Etemadfard, Evodie Koutouan, Young E. Yoon, Sanghee Lee, Oh Kwon, Jong J. Oh, Min S. Kim, Karl Willert, Nicholas A. Cacalano, Catriona H.M. Jamieson, Terry Gaasterland, Rana R. Mckay, Christopher J. Kane, Anna A. Kulidjian, Charles E. Prussak. Blockade of Wnt5A/ROR1 signaling as cancer stem cell targeting therapy for metastatic prostate cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 5967.

Abstract 353: Investigate the role of homoharringtonine in treating B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Abstract B lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) is an aggressive and highly lethal hematolymphoid malignancy and it is the most common cancer in children. Although the incidence of B-ALL in adult is lower than that in children, adult patients with B-ALL have a poor prognosis. Relapse/refractory disease is still the main cause of death in B-ALL patients. Homoharringtonine (HHT) is a plant alkaloid that was approved to treat chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) by FDA. Herein, we aimed to investigate the anti-leukemic activity of HHT in B-ALL. Cell viability was reduced in a time and dose-dependent manner upon treatment with HHT. Moreover, HHT was able to induce apoptosis in B-ALL cell lines by downregulating the MCL-1 protein level after 24 hours of treatment. Cell cycle analysis indicated G1 phase arrest, and western blot analysis demonstrated downregulation of CDK-4 and CDK-6. A proteomics study using label-free protein quantitation revealed enrichment of proteins involved in fatty acid oxidation, and further analysis showed downregulation of acyl-CoA desaturase after HHT treatment. Additionally, HHT significantly reduced the leukemic burden and prolonged survival in NSG mice injected with the PALL-2 cell line. Overall, the findings suggest that HHT is effective in treating B-ALL by inducing cell cycle arrest, with a potential inhibitory effect on fatty acid oxidation. Further studies will be conducted to evaluate the mechanism of modulation of fatty acid oxidation. Citation Format: Emilie An An Jiao, Kei Ching Yuen, Bai Lin Li, Chun Fung Sin. Investigate the role of homoharringtonine in treating B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 353.

Abstract 443: Unsaturated fatty acids promote cell cycle progression and proliferation of platinum resistant ovarian cancer cells

Abstract Introduction: Ovarian cancer (OC) depends on fat as fuel for metastasis and growth. We have previously demonstrated that cisplatin resistant (Pt-R) OC cells uptake higher amounts of fatty acids (FAs) compared to sensitive (Pt-S) cells- a process which facilitates cancer cell survival under cisplatin-induced oxidative stress. Here we aimed to determine which class of FAs promotes the Pt-R phenotype and to identify the mechanism through which FAs support cancer survival. Materials and methods: We used two isogenic OC cell lines pairs, sensitive and resistant to cisplatin: OVCAR5 Pt-S (IC50 = 2.881μM) vs Pt-R (IC50 = 6.831 μM) and PEO1 (IC50 = 4.901 μM) vs PEO4 (IC50 = 8.285 μM). Cells were cultured under low serum conditions, supplemented with 50 µM oleic (OA) or 50 µM palmitic acid (PA), and used for viability assays, RNA-Seq, and cell cycle analysis. Quantitative RT-PCR measured expression of key FAs transporters in Pt-S and Pt-R cells. Results: A viability assay showed that Pt-R cells were less viable under serum depletion compared to Pt-S OC cells. OA (unsaturated), but not PA (saturated), promoted proliferation of both OC cell lines, and rescued Pt-R vs Pt-S cells; 268.4% vs 91.6% for OVCAR-5 and 38.1% for PEO4 vs 12.1% for PEO1, suggesting that Pt-R cells depend more on unsaturated FAs compared to Pt-S cells. Quantification of key FAs transporters demonstrated that Pt-R cell expressed higher levels of FABP4, FABP5 and CD36 compared to Pt-S cells. Treatment with an FABP inhibitor reduced the Pt IC50 in Pt-R cells (from 11.893 μM to 5.0415 μM in OVCAR5 and from 8.285 μM to 6.968 μM in PEO4). RNA-Seq analysis analysed transcriptomic changes induced by 24 hour treatment with OA in OVCAR5 cells. There were 923 differentially expressed protein-coding genes, with 300 upregulated and 623 downregulated transcripts (FDR&amp;lt;0.05). Pathway analysis revealed cell cycle related pathways like: cell cycle mitotic, cell cycle checkpoints, G2/M checkpoints among the top 10 most significantly upregulated pathways and E2F1 was identified as the main effector. Cell cycle analysis confirmed that OA induced increased percentages of cells in S- and G2/M phases - from 6.95% to 11.6% (p&amp;lt;0.05), and 13.6 to 17.6% (P&amp;lt;0.05), respectively. Treatment with an E2F1 inhibitor significantly reduced the OA-induced cell proliferation. Conclusion: Pt-R OC cells are dependent on unsaturated FAs compared to Pt-S cells and upregulate key transporters to allow increased uptake of FAs. OA supports proliferation of Pt-R cells and cell cycle progression from G1 to S- and G2/M phases. Ongoing experiments focus on key mechanisms activated by unsaturated FAs in Pt-R cells. Citation Format: Ana Maria Isac, Guangyuan Zhao, Horacio Cardenas, Daniela Matei. Unsaturated fatty acids promote cell cycle progression and proliferation of platinum resistant ovarian cancer cells [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 443.

Abstract 4711: Evaluation of effect of autophagy inhibition by SAR405, a selective Vps34 inhibitor, on proliferation of pleural mesothelioma cells

Abstract Pleural mesothelioma is a poor prognostic malignancy because the efficacy of therapies remains limited; thus, there is an urgent need to elucidate the pathophysiology leading to newer treatment modalities. Macroautophagy (hereafter referred to as autophagy) is an intracellular degradation system in which cytoplasmic components are degraded by the lysosome. Autophagy plays pivotal roles in various physiological processes, including adaptation to starvation, preimplantation embryonic development, elimination of intracellular pathogens, and regulation of innate and adaptive immunity. In cancer cells, autophagy may have the potential to function protectively for the cells and, alternatively, to work suppressively. It can promote tumor growth in established cancers through autophagy-mediated intracellular recycling, providing substrates for metabolism and maintain that the functional pool of mitochondria. On the other hand, it may lead to a cytotoxic effect called autophagy-dependent cell death. Several reports have demonstrated that autophagy has cytoprotective effects on pleural mesothelioma cell lines. In this study, we assessed effects of inhibition of autophagy using SAR405, which specifically inhibits Vps34 in an early step of autophagy, on pleural mesothelioma cells. Additionally, we investigated whether SAR405 could enhance the growth suppression induced by cisplatin in these cells. Mesothelioma cell lines, including NCI-H28 (H28), NCI-H2452 (H2452), and MSTO-211H (211H), were cultured with 0.1-50 μM SAR405 or 1.0-5.0 μM cisplatin for cell viability analysis using water-soluble tetrazolium salt-8, and cell cycle analysis. For the assessment of autophagy, a plasmid, pMRX-IP-GFP-LC3-RFP-LC3ΔG, was stably transfected into mesothelioma cells. Transfected cells generate GFP-LC3-RFP-LC3ΔG, and it is cleaved into GFP-LC3 and RFP-LC3ΔG by inherent ATG4. GFP-LC3 levels are decreased by autophagy activation, while RFP-LC3ΔG serves as an internal control. SAR405 dose-dependently suppressed cell viability, accompanied by a significantly increase in the proportions of cells in the G2/M phase. The IC50 of SAR405 at 72 hours was 11.5 μM for H28, 16.7 μM for H2452, and 14.9 μM for 211H. SAR405 inhibited autophagy 24 hours after treatment at 2.5 μM for H28 and 211H, and at 5.0 μM for H2452. Furthermore, cisplatin induced autophagy at 5.0 μM for H28, 0.5 μM for H2452, 1.0 μM for 211H. The combination of 2.5-10 µM SAR405 and 0.5-5.0 µM cisplatin exhibited additive or synergistic effects on cell growth inhibition in all plural mesothelioma cell lines. In conclusion, Vps34 inhibition by SAR405 suppressed cell growth in pleural mesothelioma cells, accompanied by autophagy inhibition. The combination of SAR405 and cisplatin resulted in a synergistic inhibition of cell proliferation. Citation Format: Yoshiki Kuwabara, Kosuke Sakai, Shigeru Ishi, Shin Yokosuka, Masatoshi Abe, Tomoyuki Takahashi, Yuichiro Kawano, Hiroaki Nishimura, Maiko Toda-Sasaki, Yumiko Kobayashi-Ogawa, Satoshi Kikuchi, Yusuke Hirata, Hiroyuki Kyoyama, Gaku Moriyama, Nobuyuki Koyama, Kazutsugu Uematsu. Evaluation of effect of autophagy inhibition by SAR405, a selective Vps34 inhibitor, on proliferation of pleural mesothelioma cells [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 4711.

Abstract 5726: The potential anti-cancer activity of dual TTK/PLK1 inhibitor, BAL0891, in bladder cancer

Abstract Background: BAL0891 is a novel dual inhibitor of threonine tyrosine kinase (TTK) and polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) which affects mitotic spindle assembly checkpoint integrity resulting in aberrant mitotic progression of cancer cells. Since unlike other organs, bladder urothelium is highly regenerative in certain circumstances, there are high chances of cell cycle inhibitors to have anti-cancer activity over bladder cancer. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic potential of BAL0891 in bladder cancer compared to single TTK or PLK1 inhibitor and discovered the best therapeutic combination partner for BAL0891. Methods: We performed meta-analysis of the mRNA expression levels of bladder cancer using Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis 2 (GEPIA2). Representative bladder cancer cell lines (253J, 253J-BV, J82, RT4, T24, J82, HT1197, and HT1376) were treated with the dual protein kinase inhibitors, BAL0891, in comparison with TTK inhibitor (BAY1217389) or PLK1 inhibitor (onvansertib). BAL0891 was combined with CDK4/6 inhibitor, another cell cycle inhibitor working at different point from BAL0891. Cell viability was assessed using CCK-8 assay during 72 hours after treatment. Expression levels of TTK and PLK1 were measured by immunoblotting. Cell cycle analysis and cell apoptosis detection were performed on T24 cell. Results: The mRNA expression levels of both TTK (16.7 times) and PLK1 (10.0 times) were significantly upregulated only in bladder cancers compared to normal bladder tissues (P&amp;lt;0.05). Compared to TTK or PLK1 inhibitor, BAL0891 was sensitive in 75% of bladder cancer cell lines (IC50 &amp;lt;0.1 uM) and significantly reduced proliferation of bladder cancer cell lines depending on the dosage. TTK and PLK1 expression levels of cancer cells were associated with the sensitivity to BAL0891. BAL0891 significantly induced necrosis and increased in polyploidy and G2/M arrest in T24 cell. The anti-cancer activity of BAL0891 was further enhanced in certain cell lines (RT4, and J82) by combination of CDK4/6 inhibitor. Conclusion: This is the first study to suggest the potent anti-cancer activity of BAL0891 in bladder cancer. BAL0891 effectively worked on bladder cancer by two tracks which not only induced G2/M arrest but also increased in polyploidy. Furthermore, BAL0891 in combination with CDK4/6 inhibitor promoted anti-cancer effects. Lastly, this study suggests the use of TTK and PLK1 as the predictive biomarker for BAL0891. These data support further investigation of BAL0891 for the treatment of bladder cancer patients. Citation Format: Jee Soo Park, Ji-eun Lee, Myung Eun Lee, Jongchan Kim, Won Sik Jang, Jae Jung Lee, Jun Seung Lee, Minkyung Kang, Won Sik Ham. The potential anti-cancer activity of dual TTK/PLK1 inhibitor, BAL0891, in bladder cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 5726.

Abstract 5388: FOSL1 promotes glioma tumorigenesis and stemness through NF-κB and STAT3 pathways

Abstract Background: Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common and malignant primary brain tumor, GBM’s inevitable recurrence suggests that glioblastoma stem cells (GSC) render these tumors persistent. Our previous work showed that FOSL1, which is transactivated by the STAT3 gene, functions as a tumorigenic gene in glioma pathogenesis and is a diagnostic marker and potential drug target for glioma patients. Accumulating evidence shows that STAT3 and NF-κB cooperate to promote the development and progression of various cancers. The link between STAT3 and NF-κB suggests that NF-κB can also transcriptionally regulate FOSL1 and contribute to gliomagenesis. Methods: 1). To investigate downstream molecules of FOSL1, we analyzed the transcriptome after overexpression of FOSL1 in a PDX-L14 line, characterized by very low FOSL1 expression 2). We conducted immunohistochemical staining for FOSL1 and p65 using rabbit polyclonal anti-FOSL1 and p65 in glioma tissue microarrays (TMA) derived from 76 glioma patients and 10 normal individuals. 3). Mutants of the human FOSL1 promoter, featuring mutations in essential binding sites for NF-κB and STAT3, were generated using a Q5 site-directed mutagenesis kit. Subsequently, we examined luciferase activity in glioma cells and compared it to the wild-type FOSL1 promoter. 4). We explore the mutual regulation between NF-κB signaling and FOSL1 by modulating the expression of NF-κB or FOSL1. Subsequently, we assessed the activity of FOSL1 and NF-κB. 5) To understand the role of FOSL1 in cell growth and stemness, we conducted a CCK-8 assay, cell cycle analysis, assessing apoptosis and GSC markers, ALDH1 and CD133 under varying FOSL1 expression conditions. Results: 1) Transcriptome analyses of downstream molecules of FOSL1 show that NF-κB signaling pathways are regulated by FOSL1. 2) p65 protein expression correlates to the expression of FOSL1 in glioma patients. 3) NF-κB is a crucial transcription factor activating the FOSL1 promoter in glioma cells. 4) Mutual regulation between NF-κB and FOSL1 contributes to glioma tumorigenesis and stemness through promoting G1/S transition and inhibition of apoptosis. Conclusion: The FOSL1 molecular pathway is functionally connected to NF-κB and STAT3 activation, enhances stemness, and FOSL1 is a novel GBM drug target. Citation Format: Mingli Liu, Vanajothi Ramar, Azam Khedri, BreAnna Hudson, Shanchun Guo. FOSL1 promotes glioma tumorigenesis and stemness through NF-κB and STAT3 pathways [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 5388.

Abstract 5711: Anti-tumor effects of fadraciclib, CDK2/9 inhibitor, in biliary tract cancer

Abstract Background: Targeting CDKs has emerged as a significant strategy in the development of new drugs. The CDK4/6 inhibitors have proven their efficacy in several tumor types, while the CDK2 and CDK9 inhibitors are currently undergoing clinical trials. In biliary tract cancer (BTC), gene expressions of CDK2 and CDK9 are elevated compared to normal tissue. CDK9, a transcriptional CDK, regulates RNA polymerase II (RNAP II), leading to enhanced transcription of oncogenes, such as MCL1. Aberrant activation of these CDKs is associated with cancer progression and evading apoptosis in BTC. Notably, MCL1 is frequently amplified in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (16-21%). This finding underscores the potential significance of CDK2 and CDK9 as therapeutic targets in BTC. However, in BTC, targeting CDK2 or CDK9 has not yet been studied. In this study, we aimed to test CDK2/9 targeting and develop possible biomarker strategies in BTC. Method: A total 9 BTC cell lines (SNU245, SNU308, SNU478, SNU869, SNU1196, SNU2670, SNU2773, TFK1, and HUCCT1) were used. Fadraciclib (CDK2/9 dual inhibitor), Olaparib (PARP inhibitor), JQ1 (BRD4 inhibitor) was used. MTT assay, Colony formation assay, Annexin-V assay, and Cell cycle analysis were performed for evaluation of anti-cancer effects. The effect of Fadraciclib on homologous recombination (HR)-mediated DNA damage repair was assessed using focus formation assay and DRGFP assay. Combination of Fadraciclib with Olaparib or JQ1 was evaluated in vitro and in vivo. Result: The anti-tumor effect of Fadraciclib monotherapy was relatively higher in MCL1-High BTC cells (SNU869, SNU2773) compared to MCL-Low cells (SNU245, SNU2670). In MCL1-High cells, Fadraciclib inhibited CDK9, leading to downregulation of RNAP II phosphorylation at Serine 2 and MCL1. Fadraciclib also interfered with HR-mediated DNA damage response by inhibiting transcription of HR-related genes. The combination of Fadraciclib and Olaparib exhibited synergistic anti-tumor effects in vitro in MCL1-High cells and in vivo xenograft model. Conversely, in MCL1-Low cells, Fadraciclib increased BRD4 mRNA expression, leading to the restoration of CDK9-RNAP II activity. This reactivation of RNAP II restored cellular transcription homeostasis, thereby reactivating the transcription of oncogenes such as MCL1. Combination of Fadraciclib and JQ1 showed synergistic effects in vitro in MCL1-Low cells and in vivo xenograft model by inhibiting restored CDK9-RNAP II activity. Conclusion: MCL1-High BTC cells are sensitive to CDK2/9 inhibitor and show synergism between CDK2/9 inhibitor and PARP inhibitor. In MCL1-Low BTC, a combination of a CDK2/9 inhibitor and a BRD4 inhibitor might represent an optimal strategy for new drug development. Citation Format: Jae-Min Kim, Ah-Rong Nam, Kyoung-Seok Oh, Ju-Hee Bang, Yoojin Jeong, Sea Young Choo, Su In Lee, Hyo Jung Kim, Jeesun Yoon, Tae-Yong Kim, Do-Youn Oh. Anti-tumor effects of fadraciclib, CDK2/9 inhibitor, in biliary tract cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 5711.

Abstract 4566: Synergistic anticancer activity of cannabinoids and beta caryophyllene in xenograft mouse model of triple negative breast cancer

Abstract Combination therapy, a treatment modality that studies the effect of two or more drugs is the most common strategy used to overcome drug resistance in cancer. Cannabinoids have been proven to be potential anticancer agents. Terpenes have also been demonstrated to exhibit anticancer activity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of combinations of various cannabinoids and terpenes against drug resistant lung and breast cancer. Several cannabinoids and terpenes such as cannabidiol (CBD), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabidivarin (CBDV), cannabinol (CBN), cannabigerol (CBG) and β-caryophyllene (BC), bisabolol, myrcene, linalool, limonene, geraniol, neralidol, α-pinene, α-terpineol, γ-terpinene respectively were screened for their anticancer activity against MDA MB 231 DOX RT, H1975 OSM RT, PDX Lung cancer cell lines using 2D cytotoxicity and 3D spheroids assay. It was found that the cytotoxic potential of combinations of cannabinoids with BC increased by 10 folds in comparison to their individual anticancer activity. The combinations that exhibit synergistic action were determined from combination index (CI) values using compusyn software. Other assays such as colony formation, wound healing, apoptotic assay, cell cycle analysis by flow cytometry elucidated the possible mechanism underlying the synergism of the combinations investigated. CBC+BC was proven to be the most potent combination from all the in-vitro studies and hence was further evaluated in in-vivo tumor xenografts. Briefly, 5 million MDA MB 231 DOX RT cells were injected by S.C route in the right flank region of BALB/c nude mice. The animals were treated after the tumor volume reached 180-200mm3. The animals were administered CBC (15mg/kg, i.p.), BC (100mg/kg, i.p.) and CBC+BC thrice a week for two weeks. The tumor volume in the combination group was reduced by 2 folds relative to individual treatments and 4 folds relative to control. Western blot analysis of tumor xenografts showed downregulation of apoptotic markers such as PARP, mTOR, pAMPK, Survivin, autophagy markers such as LC 3, Glypican 5 and migration markers such as vimentin and Integrin. Immune check point proteins such as PD-L1 and PD-1 were also downregulated by combination treatment. This was further validated by qPCR. In conclusion, CBC induces programmed cell death in tumors and induces autophagy whereas BC inhibits migration and thus this combination was able to overcome resistance than individual therapies in a synergistic fashion. Citation Format: Mounika Aare, Islauddin Khan, Aakash Nathani, Breana Boirie, Arvind Bagde, Mandip Singh. Synergistic anticancer activity of cannabinoids and beta caryophyllene in xenograft mouse model of triple negative breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 4566.

Abstract 152: Exploring the impact of heat shock protein 90 on the antitumor efficacy and stemness in medulloblastoma cells

Abstract Background: Medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common children’s malignant brain tumor. Although MB can be treated with conventional chemotherapies, chemoresistance has been frequently developed and thereby hampers their therapeutic effectiveness. The preliminary reports of our research showed that some heat shock proteins have higher levels in MB cells. Among these heat shock proteins, HSP70 and HSP90 expressions are particularly high in MB CD133+ cancer stem cells (CSCs), which arouses our attention and interest. Numerous studies demonstrated that heat shock proteins are prominent in some chemotherapy-resistant cancer cells and CSCs. As known HSP90 and its client proteins are required for the maintenance of self-renewal/stemness and regulation of cell cycle, synergistic killing of cancer cells by simultaneous inhibition of HSP90 expression and activity may be a considerable good therapeutic strategy for treating MB. The purpose of this study is to verify the regulatory function of HSP90 in chemoresistance and stemness of MB. Materials and Methods: The levels of HSP90, its client proteins (P13K/pAKT, Erk, NFκB, and c-Myc), and stemness makers were detected using immunoblotting and immunoprecipitation after the treatment of HSP90 inhibitor (17-AAG) or knockdown of HSP90 by siRNA in MB and MB CSCs. The antitumor effects of HSPs inhibitors or knockdown of HSPs on these cells were evaluated by MTT assay, Annexin V/PI analysis and cell cycle analysis. Results: Our findings revealed elevated expression of HSP90 and its target client proteins in MB cells compared to normal astrocytes. Silencing or inhibiting HSP90 expression induced cell cycle arrest in MB cells. Notably, CD133+ MB CSCs exhibited higher HSP90 levels than parental MB cells. Inhibition of HSP90 led to reduced sphere formation and expression of stemness markers in CD133+ MB CSCs. Treatment with 17-AAG demonstrated antitumor activity in CD133+ MB CSCs, and a synergistic effect was observed when combining conventional chemotherapeutic agents with 17-AAG in MB cells Conclusion: These results illustrated that inhibition of HSP90 could eliminate CSCs, and thereby overcome resistance to chemotherapeutic agents in MB. Chemotherapies in combination with HSP90 blockade may be an emerging MB therapy in the future. Citation Format: Shu-Mei Chen, Hsieng-Yun Huang, Chien-Kai Wang, Yi-Yuan Yang, Sy-Jye Leu, Ying-Ying Li. Exploring the impact of heat shock protein 90 on the antitumor efficacy and stemness in medulloblastoma cells [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 152.

Abstract 4587: Development of highly selective, potent, orally available PIM1 inhibitor BLX0631 shows a therapeutics potential in multiple myeloma models

Abstract Background: The Proto-oncogenic PIMs family are nuclear and cytoplasmic Ser/Thr kinases (PIM1, PIM2, and PIM3) that are constitutively active and play a vital role in proliferation and survival in Multiple Myeloma (MM). Activated PIM1 kinase can induce progression of the cell cycle, inhibition of apoptosis, and modulation of other signal transduction pathways. Methods: BLX-0631 and a few analogs evaluated against a panel of MM cell lines (EJM, IM-9, L-363, LP-1, MM-1R, MM.1S, MOLP-2, NCI-H929, OPM-2, RPMI8226 and U-266) and primary MM patient samples by CellTiter-Glo® (CTG) assays. Cellular apoptosis, Cell cycle analysis, Flow Cytometry, and bone marrow microenvironment experiments on the most sensitive cells were performed. PIM1 and downstream targets by western blot, cell migration, and invasion on our lead PIM1 inhibitor BLX-0631 along with, kinome selectivity, ADME-Tox, PK, and in vivo MM.1S efficacy experiments were conducted. Results: The application of our empirical MolecuLernTM fragment library, PIM1 crystal structure, scaffold hopping, and the enumeration features of MolecuLernTM in combination with 3, 6, and 7-group analysis on pyridazine, lead to a synthesizable potential new lead series, representing Med Chem tractability and developable characteristics. Further, the consensus scoring, binding energies, and MolecuLern tractability filters were applied and led to the discovery of the BLX-0631 series that inhibits the PIM1 kinase. The active compounds, with their binding modes and lead optimization strategies, lead to the synthesis and testing of over 60 novel entities as PIM1 kinase inhibitors. Thus, based on our previous chemotype series and scaffold hopping method, the impact of changing the 3, 6, and 7 positions, while retaining the pyridazine core led to the discovery of BLX-0631 and its series of compounds exhibiting &amp;lt;5 nM potency. BLX-0631 in CTG assay demonstrated 100% cell growth inhibition across all MM cell lines tested. The lead compound BLX-0631 is a very potent inhibitor with an IC50 of 5.0/17/5.0 nM when tested against PIM1, PIM2, and PIM3 kinases respectively, and selective against a panel of 468 kinase panels. Dosing through IV and PO delivery routes, formulations, salt forms of BLX-0631 in mice, PK properties along with ADME-Tox, P450, and hERG results will be presented. In vivo MM.1S mouse xenograft models of BLX-0631 at 15, 30 and 45 mg/Kg, p.o, QD demonstrated TGI of 16.28%, 31.81% &amp; 35.16% dose-dependently. Conclusions: The present study demonstrates that PIM1 plays a vital role in the proliferation and survival of Multiple Myeloma. BLX-0631 induces full inhibition of all MM cell lines, suppresses cancer cell proliferation in vitro, and exhibits promising efficacy in MM tumor models. BLX-0631, a nominated IND candidate can serve as a novel targeted agent for treating Multiple Myeloma patients. Citation Format: Zhaoang li, Chenyu Lin, David J. Bearss, Hariprasad Vankayalapati. Development of highly selective, potent, orally available PIM1 inhibitor BLX0631 shows a therapeutics potential in multiple myeloma models [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 4587.